Brazil outduels Japan in five-set thriller to return to VNL final

Brazil outlasted Japan in a gripping five-set semifinal, 3–2 (23-25, 25-21, 25-18, 19-25, 15-8), to book a long-awaited return to the gold medal match of the 2025 Volleyball Nations League in Łódź, Poland, July 27 (Philippine time).

The victory marks Brazil’s first appearance in the VNL final since 2022.

Facing the same Japanese squad that eliminated them in last year’s semifinals, Brazil entered the court with urgency. 

The two teams traded sets in a tight, high-quality contest, but it was the South Americans who dominated the deciding fifth frame, jumping out to an early lead and never looking back.

Team captain Gabriela “Gabi” Guimarães led the way with 25 points, steering her team through key rallies and providing a consistent scoring threat throughout the match. 

Japan, known for its precision and defense, had several standout performers of its own. Opposite Yukiko Wada delivered 20 points, tallying 19 attacks and a block. Captain Mayu Ishikawa contributed 19 points, including 17 successful attacks, one block, and one service ace.

Left side hitter Sato Yoshino also made her presence felt with 14 points—11 from attacks, two blocks, and one ace.

With the win, Brazil sets up a highly anticipated rematch against reigning champions Italy in Monday’s final (Philippine time), a repeat of the 2022 title clash. 

After three years without a VNL crown, the Brazilians will be eager to reclaim the top spot and cap off their campaign with gold.